If spotting ancient Greek ruins around every corner doesn’t appeal to you then the stunning blue waters and beautiful mountain scenery of Kos will certainly impress. One of the Dodecanese islands, Kos is a mecca for Greek and Roman landmarks, particularly around Kos town, and a direct flight from most major British airports will see you arrive there in around 4 hours.
Where to stay?
Area
Kos has an array of resorts for all holiday types. We stayed in Kos Town (after extensive research), as this looked like it offered everything we wanted from a holiday - lots of restaurants, plenty of activities and beaches perfect for swimming and snorkelling nearby.
Hotel
My recommendation is Harmony Crest Resort Hotel, located a short walk from the centre of Kos Town it’s a perfect base for exploring the area. The rooms have spectacular 180*sea view, all have ample space and some even offer a swim up pool!
Whether you want to try the local cuisine and eat out or not you should opt for all-inclusive option, it is very reasonably priced and gives you a safety net to eat in the hotel if money gets a bit tight.
The staff are friendly, kind and could not do enough for you and the pool, bar and lounge area was fresh and offered modern and clean lines. The hotel is small and has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
Things to do
Hire a small speed boat. There are plenty of small stalls around the harbour you can do this from. It cost 100 euros for the day, plus replacing the fuel which cost approximately 60 euros. This wasn’t a cheap day but it was completely worth it. The tour guide at the dock told us where to go to visit the two small islands and the best snorkelling spots!
Visit Pserimos. Tiny cafes, seaside shops and the bluest water, Pserimos is exquisite. We chatted with the friendliest café owner who was originally from South Africa but has lived all around the world and eventually settled for a quaint, quiet life on this beautiful island. A population of approximately 80 people has kept this island pristine and it’s Greek culture intact. You can go on organised boat trips here from Kos harbour or visit yourself if you choose to hire a speed boat.
Snorkel at Marmari beach. This white sand beach stretches for miles meeting the bluest, clearest water, ideal for a mid-afternoon snorkel. The beach also has huts offering water sports if you get bored of lying on the warm sand or snorkelling.
Asklipieio Ruins. These ruins of an ancient healing temple & medical school where Hippocrates once practiced, are set high up with the most insane view towards turkey and the AgeanSea. It costs 10 euros for all day entry, which is very good value. You’d need to get a coach or drive from Kos Town, it’s only a short drive but a long, uphill walk.
Go to Aquatic waterpark in Kardameina. If like me, you’re a big kid then this waterpark is ace. There are some terrifying drop slides and plenty to keep you entertained for an afternoon.
Explore Kos Old Town. As I previously mentioned Kos Old Town is full of Greek ruin sites. You can just wander through them for free and there are plenty of boards telling you all about where you are. Some of the restaurants have tables that sit overlooking the ruins.
Hire bikes. Our hotel had bikes for hire outside so we paid 5 euros and hired them for the day. This is a great way to explore the area in a day.
Where to eat
The Fish House Taverna. A typical Greek looking street houses a delicious gem of a restaurant. This isn’t just fish it does delicious Greek style food including moussaka, kebabs and much more.
Select Restaurant Café. Situated right next to one of the ruin sites down a narrow street this restaurant is fantastic. The halloumi starter is incredibly tasty and I would recommend a fish course for mains.
Top Tips
• Hire a car, it’s a cheap and easy way to get round the island (we hired one at the airport for only 110 euros for the week)
• Take euros with you (the cash machines sometimes charge for withdrawals and some excursions don’t take card)
• Book your trips there, you can often find cheaper deals through your hotel or stalls rather than the internet, plus it gives you a chance to interact with the locals!
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